WCU student diagnosed with meningitis (Updated)

WEST CHESTER – West Chester University has confirmed that a university student has been diagnosed with bacterial (meningococcal) meningitis.

According to the university, it is working closely with the Chester County Department of Health to determine the close contacts of the student and treat them accordingly. As the contacts are identified, they will be notified by the Health Center or the Department of Health and given the accepted treatment.

The Center for Disease Control states that bacterial meningitis is usually severe and can lead to serious complications, though most people who develop the condition recover.

The Chester County Health Department identifies meningitis as an inflammation of the membrane covering the brain and spinal cord that can be of bacterial or viral origin.

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The university said the meningococcal infection is not highly contagious, though it is transferable person-to-person through direct saliva contact such as kissing, sharing eating utensils, food, using the same beverage container or being within three to four feet of an infected person when they cough. An individual who has had close contact with the diagnosed student may be considered to have been exposed, and it is recommended that they be treated with antibiotics.

According to the university, only those in close contact with the diagnosed student will be treated. Routine classroom and school contacts are usually not a risk.

University representatives said the one student is the only case they were aware of as of Wednesday evening and many of the student’s contacts have been notified.

The Center for Disease Control lists symptoms of the condition to be sudden onset of fever, headache and stiff neck. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, increased sensitivity to light and altered mental status. Symptoms can appear quickly, typically developing three to seven days after exposure.

The center stated in the United States about 4,100 cases of bacterial meningitis, including 500 deaths, occurred each year between 2003–2007.

Anyone developing symptoms is encouraged to see a physician immediately. The university urges students to contact the Student Health Center, a family doctor, or go to the nearest emergency room, informing them of any exposure to meningitis.

The Chester County Department of Health will continue to investigate the situation. Anyone with questions should contact the Student Health Center at 610-436-2509 or the Chester County Department of Health at 610- 344-6452.

University representatives said they will continue to give updates as information becomes available.

For more information on meningitis, visit the Chester County Health Department website at: http://chesco.org/index.aspx?NID=852